Together in Christ: 'Living into Our Identity in Christ' — Colossians 3:12

God chose us in Christ to be His beloved children. ^[1] He clothed us with Christ when we believed in Jesus and were baptized. ^[2] God now wants us to grow into the character of Jesus while the Holy Spirit works within us to mature us. ^[3] Our lives should display the Lord's love in what we say and do with others as we demonstrate these specific virtues: "tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."

These five virtues are essential to building good relationships and deepening our most cherished relationships. These virtues are vital for living with others in genuine fellowship. We need to be more tenderhearted and empathetic before we react to others when they slight, mistreat or wound us and when they fall short of Jesus' expectations in other ways. We need to treat others with kindness regardless of how they treat us or whatever they do. We must approach others in humility, not thinking too highly of ourselves. When dealing with misunderstandings or trying to help someone who is wounded or who is not living as he or she should, we should be gentle as we speak with and serve that person. Finally, we need patience as we assess, react, and discern how to respond to others.

Why should we be this kind of person? Each of us is loved by God, even in our own sinful state, ^[4] and has chosen to display His righteous character, gracious compassion, and unfailing love to the broken world around us.